Glasgow Anywhere Desktop
You must be enrolled to use multi-factor authentication to use this service
The Glasgow Anywhere Desktop provides Windows-based remote access using your own device to the same programs, applications, and filestore when you log in to your desktop, a computer cluster or lab PC. You can connect to the desktop through a web browser or using a software client.
Connect through a web browser
User notes
There is a 'Remember me' option when logging in. Do not use this on shared devices, as it could expose your data including email.
Use the software client (below) if you want to have a slightly better visual experience or use video and audio
After log-in - icons on the left of the window represent the different types of virtual computers that you have access to at that time. To access the virtual desktop double-click an icon. (Use your University email address and password.)
Printing - You can share your local drives and printers which allows you to upload files or print from any applications to your local printer.
All remote sessions can print to the University's PullPrint system, so printing can be retrieved on campus.
Fullscreen - You can make your session full-screen by clicking on the small double-headed arrow in the top right corner.
To return to your local desktop:
- Windows: press Alt and Tab together.
- Mac: hold down ⌘ (looped square key) and Tab together.
Peak to Off-Peak transitions
We run different servers for peak and off-peak usage to help us provide the service. You will need to save your work, logout and login again if you’re using the service between:
- 7.45am and 8am, Monday to Sunday
- 5.45pm and 6pm, Monday to Friday
Use a software client if you want to have a slightly better visual experience or use video and audio
Please note: the Remote Desktop Client (RDC) software used for this service is different from previously used RDC clients and will need to be installed as described in the below instructions.
Windows
You will need:
- Windows 10 64 bit
- Administrative rights on PC (for client installation)
Instructions
- Install the Windows Remote Desktop client from Microsoft.
- Open the Remote Desktop client software and click Subscribe.
- Enter your University of Glasgow email address and password.
- Double-click the virtual desktop you wish to use.
macOS
You will need:
- macOS Catalina or later
- Administrative rights to Mac (for client installation)
Instructions
- Install the Windows Remote Desktop client from the App Store.
- Open the Remote Desktop client software and click Workspaces.
- Choose Add Workspace and enter: https://rdweb.wvd.microsoft.com/api/arm/feeddiscovery
- Click Add.
- Enter your University of Glasgow email address and password.
- Double-click the virtual desktop you wish to use.
About Glasgow Anywhere Desktop
The Glasgow Anywhere Desktop provides access to Windows 10 virtual desktops in the cloud.
- Virtual desktops can be accessed from any device.
- Run the same programs as you would on campus at your desk, in a computer lab, or in an open access cluster.
- You can work seamlessly between the physical computers on campus, and on the virtual desktops as you see the same data in both environments – your personal drives are available as is your OneDrive.
Desktop types
Open Access
Open Access virtual desktops are always available to staff and students.
You will find most of the University’s licensed software on the desktops.
See Glasgow Anywhere Desktop Student software list
Teaching
Teaching virtual desktops are for the duration of a specific class and after the class in the evening. They will usually have additional applications installed, or be configured in a way different to Open Access desktops s defined by the course tutor.
Many of the applications used in teaching are available in the Open Access desktops too.
Staff
Staff virtual desktops are available to staff and postgraduate research students only. This service replaces the remote access service known as SSD Remote with access to a wider range of software as well as improving security.